THE NEW look Charlton Lido has already caused a splash with 5,000 visitors taking the plunge since it reopened last month.

Thousands of residents have already dipped their toes in the £3m revamped lido which now has a 50m Olympic-sized heated outdoor pool.

The art-deco baths - first built in 1930s - were only open for six weeks of the year until the refurbishment but soon swimmers can enjoy temperatures of 25 degrees centigrade all year.

Work on the redevelopment had been subject to financial difficulties in recent years but the first phase was completed on July 9.

A new health and fitness facility, community room, cafe and changing rooms will be built in phase two - which will see the pool closed again in the autumn, reopening next Easter.

The pool reopened in time for the Olympic Games and is located in Hornfair Park which has had a cash injection of £4m to offer a new BMX track, as well as rugby, tennis and football facilities.

A spokesman for the Lido said: “I think the weather is nice, the atmosphere is good, people are enjoying it and the numbers reflect that. It is very family orientated.

"There has been a buzz around the facility with the Olympics . Even when the weather is not so nice it is still a relaxed environment.”

Greenwich Council leader Councillor Chris Roberts said: "As a host borough for the 2012 London Games, the Royal Borough of Greenwich is working hard to ensure the Games make a real difference to the people of Royal Greenwich.

"Through access to the modernised Charlton lido and other new sporting facilities we are using the Games as an opportunity to inspire people and to encourage greater participation in sport and healthy living."